Author
Walter M. Miller
1923-1996
Walter M. Miller (1923-1996) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Walter M. Miller
Conditionally Human
"Conditionally Human" by Walter M. Miller, Jr. is a thought-provoking science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around a future society where genetic engineering has produced synthetic humanoid creatures known as neutroids, designed to emotionally satisfy couples unable to have children. The story delves into moral dilemmas surrounding creation, affection, and the value placed on life in a world governed by strict population control and societal norms. The plot follows Terrell Norris, a bio-agent in charge of overseeing neutroid populations, as he grapples with his role in the destruction of these beings, whom society views as mere property. As Norris struggles with the emotional impact of his duties, his life becomes further complicated when he encounters Peony, a deviant neutroid with unexpected intelligence and the ability to speak. Faced with the harsh realities of his job and the impending destruction of Peony due to her deviation from standard characteristics, Norris fights against the ethics of his world. The novella explores themes of humanity, the nature of love and attachment, and the cost of societal conformity, ultimately leading to a climactic and morally ambiguous resolution.
It Takes a Thief
"It Takes a Thief" by Walter M. Miller, Jr. is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative transports readers to a dying Mars, where myth, ritual, and the struggle for survival intertwine. The protagonist, Asir, a young thief, grapples with his dire fate of execution following his transgressions against the tribal order, navigating themes of knowledge, power, and the remnants of a once-great civilization. The story begins with Asir facing his execution but then shifts as he is unexpectedly spared, banished instead of executed. This turn of events propels him and the cunning Mara, daughter of a powerful kinsman, on an audacious adventure into the sacred vaults of the ancient Martians. As he uncovers the truth about the legendary creature, Big Joe, which guards the technologies needed to rekindle Mars’s dying atmosphere, Asir begins to forge a new identity. The story delves into Asir's struggle for redemption, highlighting the importance of knowledge and the potential to reclaim a lost civilization, all while entangled in a complex relationship with Mara that balances distrust and budding affection. Through their journey, Miller deftly explores the tension between myth and reality, challenging societal norms in pursuit of a greater purpose.
Death of a Spaceman
"Death of a Spaceman" by Walter M. Miller Jr. is a poignant short story written in the mid-20th century, reflecting the complexities of mortality and the human experience from the perspective of an aging astronaut facing death. The narrative poignantly explores themes of acceptance, family bonds, and the introspective journey of a man who has lived his life among the stars but is now confined to his hospital bed as his life comes to an end. The story centers around Old Donegal, a retired astronaut, as he confronts his impending death while surrounded by his family, including his wife Martha and his daughter Nora. As he reflects on his life spent exploring space, Donegal grapples with his deteriorating physical condition and the emotional struggles of those who care for him, especially as he learns of his grandson Ken's disinterest in pursuing a similar path in space travel. Interspersed with nostalgic memories, humor, and frank discussions about mortality, the narrative highlights his desire for one last experience of the space he loved, culminating in a symbolic final blast-off that intertwines with the reality of his death, leaving readers to ponder the meaning of life, legacy, and acceptance.
Check and Checkmate
"Check and Checkmate" by Walter M. Miller, Jr. is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of political isolation, espionage, and the complexities of diplomacy amidst a backdrop of Cold War-era tensions. It delves into the consequences of communication breakdowns and the challenges of leadership in a dystopian world where power dynamics are influenced by both the masses and subterfuge. The plot centers on John Smith XVI, the President of the Western Federation of Autonomous States, who is navigating a precarious political landscape defined by an artificial communication barrier with the East. As he attempts to establish a diplomatic relationship with Ivan Ivanovitch IX, the leader of the Asian Proletarian League, the narrative reveals the absurdities and dangers of their political machinations. The unmasking of both leaders leads to a realization of their precarious positions — both are trapped in systems that may betray them and manipulated by external forces. The story culminates in a high-stakes confrontation, highlighting the themes of identity, trust, and the relentless nature of conflict in governance.
Way of a Rebel
"Way of a Rebel" by Walter M. Miller, Jr. is a science fiction novella first published in the mid-20th century. The story takes place during a time of global conflict, characterized by the urgent military and political developments of a futuristic war scenario. It explores themes of rebellion and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a complex society on the brink of destruction, specifically through the lens of a navy lieutenant grappling with the implications of his participation in warfare. The narrative follows Lieutenant Mitch Laskell, who is stationed on a one-man submarine patrolling the Atlantic during a state of national emergency. As he learns about his government's drastic decision to engage in an all-out attack against enemy forces, he becomes increasingly conflicted regarding his duty and the ethics of the war. Laskell experiences an internal struggle with the implications of his orders and ultimately decides to desert, seeking to escape the madness of a conflict he believes threatens the very foundations of civilization. However, as he navigates the waters of rebellion, he discovers that his understanding of right and wrong—and the responsibilities of a soldier—are deeply intertwined. The novella culminates in a dramatic decision that highlights his commitment to protecting the essential tools of civilization against the destructive forces of war.
The Ties That Bind
"The Ties That Bind" by Walter M. Miller is a science fiction novella first published in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a future where humanity has long been absent from Earth, having traveled into space for thousands of years. The narrative explores themes of cultural memory, the interplay between civilization and nature, and the implications of humanity's return to a revived Earth. The plot centers around a space fleet, led by Baron Ernstli ven Klaeden, which attempts to return to Earth to refuel. As they land, they encounter Earth's inhabitants, who have maintained a peaceful existence devoid of conflict for twenty thousand years. However, the arrival of the space travelers threatens to awaken dormant cultural memories of strife from the past. The native population is initially welcoming, but as tensions rise due to the imperialistic nature of the space fleet's mission and the reintroduction of conflict, misunderstandings lead to tragic consequences. The story intricately examines the clash between two vastly different societies and the haunting legacy of cultural inheritance, ultimately showing how history can shape present realities.
The Hoofer
"The Hoofer" by Walter M. Miller is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the emotional and psychological struggles faced by a space rover as he returns to Earth after a long absence, grappling with the changes in his personal life and the impact of his experiences in space. The narrative delves into themes of identity, family, and the human condition, blending elements of science fiction with deeply human storytelling. The story follows Big Hogey Parker, a space rover who struggles to readjust to life on Earth after nine months away. His return is marred by the effects of his time in space, leaving him physically and mentally unsteady. As he makes his way home, Hogey is plagued by anxiety about his family and the circumstances he will face, particularly concerning his wife, Marie, and their child. Ultimately, the narrative leads to a moment of crisis when Hogey finds himself trapped in concrete, both literally and metaphorically, as he confronts the reality of his life choices and his relationships. The story poignantly captures the conflict between ambition and responsibility, embodying the turmoil of a man caught between the allure of space and the demands of family life.